Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre

Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre (CBHC), located on the St. Marys River in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario is dedicated to preserving the history of Bush Flying and Forest Protection in Canada. It was founded in 1987 by a group of local volunteers to preserve the province's history in bush planes and aerial firefighting.

The CBHC prides itself on being a completely interactive and hands-on museum, with fun activities for every member of the family. The 25,000 square foot hangar contains over thirty aircraft exhibits. Climb a real fire tower, see the Algoma region from above in the flight simulator, or experience the thrill of flight in the special effects-packed Object Theatre. Volunteer members actively acquire, restore, preserve and display floatplanes, bushplanes, waterbombers, and forest fire fighting equipment along with other aviation and forestry-related artifacts in order to celebrate the achievements of Canada's aviation and forest fire fighting pioneers. The museum occupies a historically significant air base first established by the Ontario Provincial Air Service in 1924. The Centre's operating revenues are derived from sales from the gift shop, admission fees, and membership dues. The centre does not rely on operating support from the public funds, though corporate costs associated with artifacts and displays have been partially funded through corporate donations and tourist infrastructure programmes. Continued support ensures a strong future and on site development and expansion of the CBHC.

The centre also operates the Sault Ste. Marie Water Aerodrome.

The CBHC will host the 13th annual Bushplane days on September 20 and 21st, 2008, a weekend of fun and activities to embrace and appreciate the history of bush planes and firefighting. Named one of Canada's top 100 festivals, Bushplane days is quickly becoming a landmark of Ontario summers.

Wings and Wheels 4th annual car show will take place at the CBHC on June 15th, 2008.

External links

* [http://www.bushplane.com/ Official site]